North America

North America

The mission of UA Ruhr New York is to facilitate and promote innovative transatlantic collaborations in research and education between the UA Ruhr universities and partners in North America. Our liaison office enhances and expands cutting-edge international research and education opportunities for researchers and students and their collaborating partners to assist in extending programs throughout the Ruhr region and in North America, and ultimately help them develop solutions for global challenges.

The mission of UA Ruhr New York is to facilitate and promote innovative transatlantic collaborations in research and education between the UA Ruhr universities and partners in North America. Our liaison office enhances and expands cutting-edge international research and education opportunities for researchers and students and their collaborating partners to assist in extending programs throughout the Ruhr region and in North America, and ultimately help them develop solutions for global challenges.

The academic hub for research, teaching, study and networking in Germany’s vibrant Ruhr area

The University Alliance Ruhr (UA Ruhr) is an alliance of the Ruhr-Universität Bochum, TU Dortmund University and the University of Duisburg-Essen. The UA Ruhr Liaison Office New York represents these three universities in North America. UA Ruhr New York was founded in 2004 under the name ConRuhr (Consortium of the Ruhr Area Universities) and is located in New York City. It is a tax-exempt nonprofit organization under section 501(c)(3) of the United States tax code and is supported through contributions by the three Ruhr Universities.

With over 120,000 students, 1,300 professors and nearly 14,000 researchers, UA Ruhr represents one of the largest and high-performing research locations in Germany. UA Ruhr New York promotes, supports and facilitates academic collaborations between the three Ruhr Universities and partners in the United States and Canada.

Tradition and future

Tradition in changeThe Ruhr area, or Ruhrgebiet, is the most densely populated region of Germany, with more than 5.1 million people living in more than 50 municipalities. The big four — Duisburg, Essen, Bochum and Dortmund — once were the heart and backbone of Germany’s coal and steel industry, a heritage of strength and classic technology. Today, the entire region stands for smart and innovative answers to the big challenges of technical, economic and social change. This is the place where people from all parts of the world come to work,live and create a better future.

From coal to college and high techThe Ruhrgebiet has gone through an exemplary transformation from Germany’s blue-collar heartland into one of the country’s most vibrant regions for science and research. Blast furnaces, gasometers and winding towers are visible reminders of a glorious industrial past, and today mainly serve as venues for cultural events. The three UA Ruhr universities have been key to the Ruhr area’s transformation into a role model for structural change. Interdisciplinary academic work, an excellent network of research institutes, and close ties to large corporations and startups reintroduced the entire Ruhr area as a world-class destination for science, research and culture.

Well connectedThe Ruhrgebiet has one of the world’s most extensive public transportation networks with more than 900 commuter train, subway, light-rail and bus lines, serving more than 10,000 stops. International long-distance and high-speed trains connect the Ruhr area’s cities with other German and European metropolitan regions, and Düsseldorf International Airport serves as a hub to all major destinations, both continental and intercontinental.

Life and landscapes

CultureThe 35-mile stretch between Duisburg and Dortmund boasts an unparalleled landscape: The Ruhr area has not only successfully transitioned from heavy industries to science and research, it has also developed into a unique cultural landscape. International events such as the RuhrTriennale, the Ruhr Piano Festival and the Ruhr Theater Festival feature international as well as regional art and artists — mainstream, classic or experimental. Almost everything can be found in the region’s 300-plus museums, venues, parks and theaters.

NatureThe Ruhr, Emscher and Lippe waterways — once highly polluted and toxic — are now clean rivers with functioning ecosystems. Along the riverbanks, hiking and biking routes connect the different landscapes of the Ruhrgebiet and serve as lively getaways for weekend trips or romantic boat tours. The Landscape Park Duisburg North is an excellent demonstration of the region’s philosophy to move on without abandoning the past: Steel structures transform into green landmarks with playgrounds, gardens and entertainment.

SportIf there is one thing that stirs up emotions, it is soccer. When the local soccer teams play against one another, streets empty and it suddenly matters whether you are a fan of VfL Bochum or of Borussia Dortmund. Soccer is the most popular sport in the region, but of course there are hundreds of activities that everyone can pursue, from kickboxing to yoga, from car racing to chess, in countless clubs for every age group.

The UA Ruhr New York office promotes innovative transatlantic collaboration in research and education among the three UA Ruhr universities and academic partners in North America.We leverage our strengths in science and engineering, social sciences, and the humanities, and create unique opportunities for international academic cooperation.We assist in extending programs throughout the Ruhr region and in North America, and ultimately help develop solutions for global challenges.

Research partnerships and event planningUA Ruhr New York is located at the German Consulate New York City. We have excellent facilities (conference and meeting rooms, auditorium, restaurant) available for various types of events, including workshops, panel discussions, lectures, and exhibits.

Graduate ProgramsThere are some 180 master‘s degree programs, many of them offered in English, in engineering and science, as well as in the social sciences and humanities. Working closely with our internationally renowned faculty, students earn a degree that is highly respected by employers around the world. The UA Ruhr universities do not charge tuition fees. Students pay a low semester fee that includes a semester pass for public transportation throughout the entire state of North Rhine-Westphalia.For a current summary of all graduate programs, please click here (link zur MA Broschüre).

Summer and winter schoolsThe University of Duisburg-Essen offers Summer as well as Winter schools. These courses are a combination of German Language Studies and a Cultural Immersion Program.

TU Dortmund University offers an International Summer Program (ISP) from June to August. Within the International Summer Program you can choose and combine courses from two fields of study: Engineering and German and European Culture.

Ruhr University Bochum offers the following summer school programs:

BiSS International Summer School for undergraduate and graduate students in economics and related fields

Internships, research visits, semester- or year-long exchange programsIn addition to the options above there are a lot of individual opportunities, too.Feel free to contact us on office@uaruhr.org! We are happy to help you with your individual questions.

The Ruhr Fellowship Program connects highly motivated undergraduate students in the United States with a unique experience to expand their portfolio and networks to one of the most dynamic and technologically advanced areas in Germany. As Germany’s “Cradle of Industry”, the Ruhr Area has come to represent creativity and innovation with its internationally renowned companies, universities and research institutes.

We are looking for top students interested in a new hands-on experience next summer as one of 10 Ruhr Fellows. You must be currently enrolled in your Sophomore, Junior, or Senior year in an engineering, science or business degree program at one of the following participating universities: Harvard University, Lehigh University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, University of California, Berkeley, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University.

Ruhr Fellows will participate in a one-month intercultural and language immersion program at the university level followed by a one-month internship with one of Germany’s leading companies located in the Ruhr Area.

Program dates: June 4 - July 27, 2018Find out more about the Ruhr Fellowship!***The application process for 2018 is now closed. For the 2019 Ruhr Fellowship Program, please check back with us in September 2018.***

News & Events

Research Foci

The universities of UA Ruhr offer a broad variety of cutting-edge research that transcends disciplinary borders and achieves international recognition. The collegial nature within and between disciplines and institutions is one of the true hallmarks of the Ruhr Area. Students, scientists, and scholars who come to the UA Ruhr universities become part of a down-to-earth and close-knit network of research institutes and companies whose impact stretches far beyond the Ruhr Area.

Opened in 1965 as the first university in the Ruhr area, the Ruhr University Bochum (RUB) is now one of Germany’s biggest and most successful research universities.

RUB’s Research School, an international college for structured doctoral research, is one of the university’s Projects of Excellence. Another project is the Cluster of Exellcence RESOLV (Ruhr Explores Solvation) that supports researchers at all stages of their career and offers a new platform for high value, interdisciplinary education and training for the next generation of scientists.

Interfaculty and interdisciplinary research departments raise the profile of RUB. The outstanding support provided by the Early Career Researchers program and an excellent infrastructure round out the picture.

Worldfactory, a student training facility and coworking space, supports students who would like to found their own company. Across subject areas and industries, Worldfactory offers both the infrastructure and the expertise needed to develop sustainable and creative business solutions.

Founded in 1968, TU Dortmund University is dedicated to a unique cross-weaving of natural sciences and engineering as well as social sciences and cultural studies.

With its focus on interdisciplinary cooperation, the university has created a distinctive profile which fosters progressive research and facilitates innovative teaching.

TU Dortmund University is a leading player in the fields of production engineering, electrical engineering and educational research. Its faculty has received numerous prestigious grants and distinctions.

The Center for Entrepreneurship & Transfer (CET) offers entrepreneurial research and education as well as a comprehensive range of startup services such as infrastructure, consultancy and coaching, support for business plan competitions, and identifying financing options and mentors.

Dortmund Center for Teacher Training and Teaching/Learning Research (DoKoLL)

Research Institute for Technology and Disability (FTB)

Institute for Gerontology (FfG)

German

Institute for Civic Arts (DIS)

Research profile

Materials, Production Technology and Logistics

Chemical Biology, Drug Research and Process Engineering

Data Analysis, Modeling and Simulation

Education, Schooling and Inclusion

Dortmund Technology Park

Largest technology park in Germany (#5 in Europe)

around 350 companies

20,000 employees (incl. academic staff)

€1.1b turnover

Europe’s largest incubator with more than 100.000 sqm incubation space for diverse technologies such as logistics, biomedicine, robotics, IT, micro and nano technology, sensor systems and production technology

Created in 2003 by the merger of the universities of Duisburg and Essen, the University of Duisburg-Essen (UDE) is the youngest university in the state of North Rhine-Westphalia and one of the ten largest universities in Germany.

In many disciplines, UDE ranks among the top ten of German research universities. Over the past three years, research income has risen 150 percent.

UDE has developed five interdisciplinary research clusters in which its scientists accomplish outstanding work. In the interdisciplinary field of nanoscience, for example, UDE has established itself as a global player with its Center for Nanointergration, CENIDE.

The Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship (IDE) at the University of Duisburg-Essen supports innovations and startups across disciplines and industries. IDE provides a range of start-up services such as coaching and innovation workshops, courses in accounting and management as well as its own Master’s program in “Innopreneurship.”

Funding opportunities

Resources for Undergraduates (from North America)

RUHR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – Gain access to top universities in Germany as a Ruhr FellowThe Ruhr Fellowship Program connects highly motivated undergraduate students in the United States with a unique experience to expand their portfolio and networks to one of the most dynamic and technologically advanced areas in Germany. As Germany’s “Cradle of Industry”, the Ruhr Area has come to represent creativity and innovation with its internationally renowned companies, universities and research institutes.

We are looking for top students interested in a new hands-on experience next summer as one of 10 Ruhr Fellows. You must be currently enrolled in your Sophomore, Junior, or Senior year in an engineering, science or business degree program at one of the following participating universities: Harvard University, Lehigh University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton University, University of California, Berkeley, University of Pennsylvania, Yale University.

Ruhr Fellows will participate in a one-month intercultural and language immersion program at the university level followed by a one-month internship with one of Germany’s leading companies located in the Ruhr Area.

Program dates: June - JulyApplication: Autumn of the previous yearTo find out more about the Ruhr Fellowship, click here for the the flyer of the last Ruhr Fellowship.

BEST SUMMER ACADEMYThe Business and Economics Term (BEST) Program is an academic program in an international setting, which is designed for upper division undergraduate and graduate students. It is organized by the Faculty of Business Administration - Mercator School of Management - of the University Duisburg-Essen on the Duisburg Campus. BEST offers a variety of courses in business, economics and German language with special emphasis on the European economic environment. BEST also includes field trips and company visits to the industrial and cultural vicinity of Duisburg and an extended weekend excursion to Berlin. The program does not require prior German language training. Students can earn up to nine credits for courses successfully completed. More details can be found here.Program Dates: May-JuneApplication periode: Spring

German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) Grants for Study and ResearchThe German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) is the German national agency for the support of international academic cooperation. The DAAD offers programs and funding for students, faculty, researchers and others in higher education, providing financial support to almost 120,000 individuals per year. For more information, please go to the website of the DAAD North America.

Resources for Undergraduates (from Germany)

TRANSATLANTIC RUHR FELLOWSHIP PROGRAM – Gain access to international organizations and companies in the New York metropolitan area The Transatlantic Ruhr Fellowship Program provides highly motivated students from the University Alliance Ruhr with a unique experience to expand their portfolio and networks to New York's Tri-state area. North America's most populous area and the center of many industries such as finance, international trade, biotechnology, manufacturing and media.

We are looking for top students interested in a new hands-on experience next summer as one of 10 Transatlantic Ruhr Fellows. You must be currently enrolled in an engineering, social science or business degree program (Bachelor or Master) at one of the following participating universities: Technical University Dortmund, Ruhr University Bochum, University of Duisburg-Essen.

The Transatlantic Ruhr Fellows will participate in a one-week summer school on topics such as entrepreneurship, global markets and regional labor relations and a one-week skills seminar in New York City while gaining hands-on experience during their internships at companies and international organizations in the New York metropolitan area. As part of our program they will also be introduced to our UA Ruhr partner universities and will enjoy a wide range of cultural activities.

To find out more about the Transatlantic Ruhr Fellowship Program, have a look at our 2018 program brochure.

Program dates: August 5 - September 27, 2019Application deadline: December 15, 2018To find out more about the Transatlantic Ruhr Fellowship and how to apply, click here.

Resources for Graduates and Postdocs

DAADInternational Masters and Doctoral Degree ProgramA comprehensive database with international programs organized by degree level, field of study, subjects, course language and location. More

DFGCollaborative Research CentersCollaborative Research Centres are institutions established at universities for a period of up to 12 years that enable researchers to pursue an outstanding research programme, crossing the boundaries of disciplines, institutes, departments and faculties.They facilitate scientifically ambitious, complex, long-term research by concentrating and coordinating the resources available at a university. More

Graduate SchoolsGraduate schools play a key role not only in developing internationally competitive centres of top-level research and scientific excellence in Germany but also in increasing their recognition and prestige. They serve as an instrument of quality assurance in promoting young researchers and are based on the principle of training outstanding doctoral students within an excellent research environment. More

Research Training GroupsResearch Training Groups are established by universities to promote young researchers. They are funded by the DFG for a period of up to nine years. Their key emphasis is on the qualification of doctoral researchers within the framework of a focused research programme and a structured training strategy. Research Training Groups with an interdisciplinary approach are warmly welcomed. More

For funding from other institutes and organizations including DAAD and DFG, Fraunhofer Society, Helmholtz Association, Leibniz Association, and the Max Planck Society, please refer to the comprehensive database provided by "Research in Germany".

Resources for Faculty

(from Germany and North America)

Alexander von Humboldt FoundationThe Alexander von Humboldt Professorship, which is financed by the Federal Ministry of Education and Research through the International Research Fund for Germany, enables award winners to carry out long-term and ground-breaking research at universities and research institutions in Germany. The award funds, totalling 5 million EUR for academics in experimental disciplines and 3.5 million EUR for researchers in theoretical disciplines, are made available for a period of five years. More

DAADFaculty support from the DAAD ranges from funding for conferences to language programs in Germany. Check out the database with opportunities for faculty and researchers. More

DFGHeisenberg Program – ProfessorshipThe Heisenberg Program is directed primarily at those researchers who have qualified for professorship via the Emmy Noether Program, DFG staff positions, private-sector research or non-faculty academic positions. The target group also includes junior professors who have received positive evaluations, those who have achieved their habilitation or equivalent, and German researchers returning from abroad, as well as appropriately qualified foreign researchers looking to pursue careers in Germany. More

Temporary Positions for Principal InvestigatorsFor applicants who are interested in a temporary position as principal investigator as part of a research grant or in the Research Units and Priority Programs. To learn more about the research grants program, its objectives, eligibility requirements, and what types of funding are available, please refer to the guidlines of the research grants program.

FraunhoferThe grant »Fraunhofer Attract« offers outstanding external scientists the opportunity to develop their ideas towards an actual application within an optimally equipped Fraunhofer institute operating close to the market. The scientist will be offered a budget of 2.5 Million Euro over 5 years to lead a group of 3-5 co-workers. More

UA Ruhr New York Team

Gerhard was appointed Professor for Plant and Process Design at the Department of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering at TU Dortmund University in 2005. His research interests focus on the conceptual design and simulation of (bio)chemical processes with special interest in innovative downstream processes and on module based plant design. Gerhard has published over 30 reviewed papers and textbook chapters, is co-inventor of 3 patents and a member of various scientific organizations and advisory boards. He is the speaker of the North Rhine-Westphalian graduate cluster "Industrial Biotechnology". For more details, see Gerhard's page on the website of the Department of Biochemical and Chemical Engineering at TU Dortmund University.

Barbara is the Director of the International Office at TU Dortmund University. Her responsibilities include the coordination of the New York office from the German side. Prior to joining the International Office, Barbara worked in the American Studies Department where she was involved in the orientation program for students from North America. She wrote her dissertation on international education focusing on student exchange between the United States and Germany. For more details, see Barbara's page on the website of the International Office at TU Dortmund University.

Peter has been leading the New York office since 2014 and has supported and facilitated academic collaborations between the three Ruhr Universities and a steadily growing network of partners in the United States and Canada. Prior to joining UA Ruhr, Peter was the Educational Liaison at the Goethe-Institut New York where he developed outreach and marketing strategies for positioning German programs in the US. Before that, he worked as lecturer for German Studies at Trinity College (CT). For more details, see his LinkedIn profile.